DNA nanotechnology: From sensing and DNA machines to drug-delivery systems

Chun Hua Lu, Bilha Willner, Itamar Willner*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

206 Scopus citations

Abstract

DNA/nanoparticle hybrid systems combine the unique electronic and optical properties of nanomaterials with the recognition and catalytic properties of nucleic acids. These materials hold great promise for the development of new sensing platforms, the programmed organization of nanoparticles, the switchable control of plasmonic phenomena in the nanostructures, and the controlled delivery of drugs. In this Perspective, we summarize recent advances in the application of DNA/nanoparticle (NP) hybrids in these different disciplines. Nucleic acid-semiconductor quantum dot hybrids are implemented to develop multiplexed sensing platforms for targeted DNA. The chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer mechanism is introduced as a new transduction signal, and the amplified detection of DNA targets through the biocatalytic regeneration of analytes is demonstrated. DNA machines consisting of catenanes or tweezers, and modified with fluorophore/Au NP pairs are used as functional devices for the switchable "mechanical" control of the fluorescence properties of the fluorophore. Also, nucleic acid nanostructures act as stimuli-responsive caps for trapping drugs in the pores of mesoporous SiO2 nanoparticles. In the presence of appropriate biomarker triggers, the pores are unlocked, leading to the controlled release of anticancer drugs. Selective cancer-cell death is demonstrated with the stimuli-responsive SiO2 nanoparticles.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)8320-8332
Number of pages13
JournalACS Nano
Volume7
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - 22 Oct 2013

Keywords

  • cancer cells
  • catenane
  • chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (CRET)
  • chemotherapy
  • controlled release
  • DNA machine
  • drug delivery
  • fluorescence
  • graphene oxide
  • mesoporous
  • nanocluster
  • nanoparticle
  • plasmon
  • quantum dot
  • sensor
  • stimuli-responsive
  • tweezers

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